If You Like Blanton's, Buy These Instead
If You Like Blanton's, Buy These Instead
Blanton's is a solid single barrel bourbon that's tough to find these days without paying an arm and a leg, and honestly, the hype around it can be a bit much. Back when I first got into bourbon a few years ago, I chased down my first bottle of Blanton's after a buddy raved about it during a fishing trip – poured it neat by the campfire and yeah, it hit the spot with that smooth caramel vibe. But now? There are way better craft and niche options out there from smaller producers or unique batches that give you more bang for your buck without the crazy markup. These picks lean into small-batch and single barrel territory, with richer flavors and real character that'll make you forget the horse stopper real quick.
Four Roses Single Barrel
This one's a real gem from a distillery that's all about pickin' the best barrels, givin' you that bold peppery edge mixed with honeyed caramel, ripe fruits like peach and apple, and a touch of toasted oak that lingers nice and smooth. It's got more rye in the mash than your average bourbon, so it hits with that spicy zing just like Blanton's, but with a brighter, fruitier twist that makes it perfect for sippin' neat or over a big ice cube on a quiet evenin'. Folks say it's consistent and punches above its weight for the price, makin' it a go-to when you want somethin' refined without breakin' the bank, and it's from a place focused on quality over quantity.
Elijah Craig Single Barrel
Comin' from Heaven Hill but in those special store-pick versions, this bourbon brings a dry, effervescent citrus pop alongside licorice, fennel, apple slices, and warm clove spices that build up to a fragrant oak finish. It's similar to Blanton's in how it balances sweetness with herbal depth and a bit of tannic bite, but it amps up the complexity with more wood influence and a fuller body that feels premium without bein' over the top. If you're into explorin' different picks, each one varies a tad, keepin' things interestin' for your next pour after dinner or sharin' with buddies.
Russell's Reserve Single Barrel
Wild Turkey makes this one, but the single barrel picks take it to a niche level with deep herbal notes, loads of fruit-forward sweetness like cherry and orange, plus layers of tobacco, oak, and a subtle tobacco chew that adds grit. It mirrors Blanton's fruit and herb combo but cranks the intensity with better balance and a longer, warmer hug on the palate, makin' it ideal for those cooler nights when you want somethin' hearty. These are often hand-selected by stores, so they're not mass-produced slop, and they deliver that craft feel with every sip.
John J. Bowman Single Barrel
Distilled by the folks at Buffalo Trace but aged way down in Virginia, this crafty number packs richer herbal and fruity sweetness with hints of vanilla bean, caramel drizzle, and a solid oak backbone that develops into somethin' almost chewy. It's a lot like Blanton's in the gentle spice and bright fruit department, but it edges ahead with more depth and a regional twist that screams small-batch charm. Availability might be spotty dependin' on where you are, but when you snag one, it's like findin' a hidden treasure for your shelf that pairs great with a good cigar.
Bardstown Boubron Origin Series
From the Bardstown Bourbon Company, this high-rye beauty is all about that 96-proof punch with waves of caramel, vanilla, zesty citrus peel, and peppery spice that dances on your tongue without overwhelmin'. It nails the Blanton's profile by keepin' things smooth and layered, but as a newer craft player, it brings a fresh, innovative edge with its own distillate that's not just sourced stuff. Priced around forty bucks, it's a steal for everyday drinkin', and it's got that niche appeal from a distillery that's pushin' boundaries in the bourbon world.
1792 Small Batch
Barton 1792 puts out this small-batch stunner with bold black pepper, bakin' spices, vanilla waves, caramel richness, and dark fruits like plum that give it a full, assertive sip without goin' overboard. Much like Blanton's, it captures that sweet-spicy harmony thanks to its higher rye content, but it adds a bit more bite and complexity for those who like their bourbon to stand up strong. It's from a historic spot that's not as flashy as the big names, makin' it feel more exclusive, and it's widely enough available to grab without too much fuss for your weekend unwind.
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